11364, Oakland Gardens, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 11364, Oakland Gardens, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.39 percent of residents in 11364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Creedmoor Psychiatric Center with a distance of 1.56 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Oakland Gardens (ZIP Code 11364)**

The quest for accessible healthcare, particularly for residents managing asthma, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. In Oakland Gardens (ZIP Code 11364), this assessment considers the intricate interplay of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking timely and reliable medical attention, especially those considering moving to this Queens neighborhood.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Arteries of Queens**

For residents of Oakland Gardens, personal vehicles offer a direct route to healthcare facilities. However, the notorious traffic congestion of Queens significantly impacts drive times, particularly during peak hours. The primary arteries serving the area are the Long Island Expressway (LIE, I-495) and the Grand Central Parkway. Traveling east on the LIE towards Nassau County can present significant delays, especially during morning and evening commutes.

Accessing hospitals like Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, though geographically close, can take upwards of 20-30 minutes during rush hour, a critical factor for asthma sufferers needing urgent care. The Grand Central Parkway, while often less congested than the LIE, still experiences slowdowns, particularly near the Kew Gardens Interchange. Smaller roads like Union Turnpike and Springfield Boulevard provide alternative routes, but these are often slower and more prone to traffic lights.

The average drive time to a primary care physician within a 5-mile radius of Oakland Gardens is generally 15-20 minutes, contingent on the time of day. Specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, might necessitate journeys to Manhattan or other boroughs, potentially increasing travel times to an hour or more, making transportation a significant consideration for those with asthma.

**Public Transit: A Network of Buses and Subways**

The New York City Transit system provides a crucial alternative to driving, offering a network of buses and subways. The Q46, Q20A/B, and Q30 bus routes serve Oakland Gardens, connecting residents to subway lines and various healthcare facilities. The Q46, a frequent route, links to the E and F subway trains at 179th Street station, providing direct access to hospitals in Manhattan.

The E and F trains offer express and local service, respectively. The E train, with its faster travel times, is a preferred option for those needing to reach Manhattan quickly. However, subway stations in the area, while generally accessible, may present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. While many stations are ADA-compliant, some older stations lack elevators or ramps, making them inaccessible for some asthma patients.

The Q20A/B buses connect to the 7 train at Main Street-Flushing, providing access to hospitals in Flushing and further connections to other subway lines. The 7 train, known as the "International Express," serves many diverse neighborhoods, but can be crowded during peak hours, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to close proximity to others and limited ventilation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an on-demand transportation solution. These services are readily available in Oakland Gardens, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for those unable to drive or who need a quick and direct route to medical appointments. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, particularly during peak hours or for longer distances.

Medical transport services, such as Ambulnz, Medical Transportation Solutions, and others, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring safe and comfortable transport. These services are essential for patients with limited mobility or those who require assistance during their journey. However, medical transport services require pre-booking and can be expensive, often not covered by insurance.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Asthma Score" for Oakland Gardens highlights the complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. While the neighborhood offers a range of transportation choices, each presents unique challenges for asthma sufferers. Drive times can be unpredictable, public transit can be crowded, and ride-sharing and medical transport come with associated costs.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is also a crucial factor. The proximity of hospitals and specialized clinics is essential for timely access to medical care. The presence of urgent care centers in the area can provide immediate assistance for asthma exacerbations.

**Moving to Oakland Gardens: A Transportation-Informed Decision**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Oakland Gardens, a thorough evaluation of transportation options is critical. Proximity to public transit, access to ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport are all vital considerations. Prospective residents should factor in drive times to healthcare facilities, the accessibility of subway stations, and the potential costs associated with various transportation methods.

Choosing a residence near bus routes with frequent service and accessible subway stations can significantly improve healthcare access. Understanding the traffic patterns on major highways and roads is essential for planning medical appointments. Considering the financial implications of ride-sharing and medical transport is also crucial.

The "Asthma Score" underscores the importance of informed decision-making. By carefully assessing the transportation landscape, individuals with asthma can make informed choices about where to live, ensuring timely and reliable access to the medical care they need. The ability to navigate the transportation network effectively is a key determinant of quality of life for those managing asthma in Oakland Gardens.